Thomas G. "Bomber" Guidera, Sr.

Mr. Thomas G. “Bomber” Guidera, Sr., age 87, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at the Westchester Neighborhood of the Masonic Care Community of NY with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on August 2, 1922, Thomas was the son of the late Joseph, Sr., and Josephine (Romeo) Guidera. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served his country during World War II from 1942 to 1945. He was stationed aboard the Attack Cargo Ship, the USS Oberon (AKA-14), “The Best Afloat”, and participated in strategic campaigns in the European and Asiatic-Pacific Theaters. At one time he was wed to the former Marjorie Griffin and to that marriage came the blessings of 8 children. He shared in a second union for many years with Carol Crane. A master carpenter, Tommy was creative and gifted in his trade. He also operated his own roofing business, Guidera Home Improvements. His work ethic was exceptional and admired by his family and patrons. Tommy highlighted the humorous aspects in all of life’s moments, and over the years he forged many fun-loving memories for his family. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and taught them to honor family, a lesson of love they upheld throughout their lives and most recently during his illness. He was admired by the generations of his family that followed, often remarking, “Look at what I started!” when loved ones gathered for special occasions. A lively character, he was quite the dancer and league bowler, but he also enjoyed the solitude of fishing. He looked forward to reunions of ‘plank owners’ of the USS Oberon, fellow shipmates with whom he served. He was a member of his family church, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Tommy is survived by his children and their families, Gary and Rosanne Guidera of Syracuse, Dona and James Shaw of Clayton, Nancy Sportello of Herkimer, Tommy Guidera, Jr. and Susan Gordon of Floyd; Joey and Ann Guidera, and JoAnne and Francis Suppa, all of Utica, and George and Deanna Guidera of Stittville; his former daughter-in-law, Eileen. Always close to his heart was the memory of his infant daughter, Mary Christine. He also leaves 18 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren with the anticipation of two additional little ones. Survivors also include his sister, Lucy Guerino of Deerfield; many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Leatha Guidera. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, George Guidera, Luciano M. “Lucky” and Rose C. Guidera, and Joseph G. Guidera, Jr.; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Rose and Leonard Borruso, Sr., and Nancy M. and James V. Sardino; his son-in-law, Robert Sportello; and his brother-in-law, Al Guerino, Sr. The Guidera family wishes to offer a gracious thank-you to the staff of the Westchester Neighborhood at the Masonic Care Community of NY; their compassion, accommodating ways, and affection were so welcoming. In return, Tommy was a spark of life and an uplifting spirit of the “neighborhood”. Visitation will be held Friday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Tommy’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Father Joe Salerno officiating. Military Honors will be conferred. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Thomas G. "Bomber" Guidera, Sr.

August 2, 1922 - February 16, 2010